Julia Tolstrup

Latest posts by Julia Tolstrup

Spring Bucket List: The Best Things To Do in Connecticut with Kids this Spring

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Fri, 03/03/2023 - 9:44am

Knocking the best things to do in Connecticut off that spring bucket list is definitely worth a fist bump! Photo courtesy of the Adventure Park at Storrs

Come spring, our family is itching to get active again. After spending three months cooped up inside, we are ready to be out in the sunshine and stretch our legs. Whether nature hikes near Danbury, boat rides in Mystic, or hopping on bikes in Hartford, we're excited! There are tons of fun to have in late March, April, May, and early June. Everything from playgrounds to fishing to ice cream—it all awaits us when the snow melts and your winter clothes finally get put away.

For more ideas to make the most of the season, check out our Spring Fun Guide. For the best of spring in CT delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletters.

STEM Summer Camps in Connecticut: Science, Math, and Computer Fun for CT Kids

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Sun, 02/16/2020 - 4:00pm

Minecraft modding is one of many programs at iD Tech. Photo courtesy of iD Tech

Got a STEM-loving Connecticut kiddo? At these math, computer, and science summer camps across Connecticut, kids ranging in age from preschoolers to teens will have a chance to learn STEM principles, including modeling a coral reef, designing and printing 3-D objects, to powering a circuit using solar energy, and more. They keep problem-solving skills sharp over the summer, but for kids, these hands-on science camps are just plain fun.

Check out these STEM summer camps across the state, or take a look at our extensive Summer Camp Guide and Summer Camp Directory for tons of options fit for all interests, including affordable Connecticut camps and sleepway camps.

Where to Fish with Kids in Connecticut

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Sun, 02/09/2020 - 5:54pm

My childhood is full of fond memories of fishing trips by the shores of lakes and rivers and drifting along in our silent gray canoe. Connecticut has a lively fishing culture and a lot to offer kids interested in honing up their angling. Whether you need to know about licenses or classes, or just the best spots to cast a line, read on for the whole story on the what, where, and when of fishing in Connecticut, from Candlewood Lake and Lake Zoar in western Connecticut to Black Pond and Moodus Resevoir in the East.

See our spring fun guide and summer activities guide for more ideas of enjoying waterfront activities with Connecticut kids.

9 Indoor Play Spaces in New Haven County for Connecticut Kids

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Fri, 02/07/2020 - 2:00pm

Kids can climb, bounce, and reach for the stars at Urban Air. Photo courtesy of Urban Air Trampoline Park, Orange

If your kids are anything like my two bundles of non-napping energy, there are days when you just need to let them run free – but preferably within a confined indoor space. There are a few notable play areas that are perfect for tiring kids out on cold or wet days in New Haven County, in particular. Inexpensive and varied, each indoor play space has its own charm. For more indoor fun check out our Connecticut Indoor Play Guide.

North Pole Express and Christmas Train Rides with Santa in Connecticut

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Fri, 10/04/2019 - 10:45am

The Santa Special Train Ride in Essex. Photo courtesy of the Connecticut Office of Tourism

Santa may be known for his sleigh, but when he's here in Connecticut, the big guy is all about trains. Starting in November, he can be found on several Polar Express and other Christmas-themed trains in Connecticut, including the ever-popular North Pole Express and Santa Special Train Ride in Essex. In between munching on cookies, sipping on cocoa, and chatting with Santa, there is nothing like watching the steam roll and waft in front of the train's headlights—it's a magical holiday experience for kids and parents alike!

But act fast: Tickets for some of these trains become available in the early fall and sell out even before Halloween. But even if a certain train is sold out, there's likely an available one around the bend, so read on—it's a special holiday experience worth waiting for!

Birthday Freebies for Connecticut Kids

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Fri, 02/01/2019 - 8:00pm

Photo courtesy of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts

Birthdays are great when you're a kid. There's the endless countdown to the big day, and finally waking up to the much-anticipated morning. So what could possibly make all this even more exhilarating? How about a whole bunch of free stuff? If you know where to look, there are some pretty sweet freebies to be had on your kid's birthday (or on yours, for that matter) across Connecticut. A lot of these places are big companies that require sign-up to a club or mailing list, and many of them require a minimum age for membership, so parents may want to be the primary member and just hand off the goodies. Others, though, are smaller, local businesses that genuinely want to offer something lovely to the people who support them. Whether your little one might like a free birthday ice cream cone or a trip back in time, here are some fun free finds for the next birthday.

To get more free fun at home and in your town delivered to your inbox, sign up for our newsletters—and discover all the free events and activities near you in our Connecticut Free Things To Do with Kids Guide.

Ultimate CT Halloween Guide: Top Events, Parades, and Activities

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Sun, 09/23/2018 - 10:58am

For a kindler, gentler Halloween, try Beardsley Zoo's Boo at the Zoo. Photo by Ally Noel

It has come to my attention that Connecticut sort of owns Halloween. You'd be hard-pressed to find yourself very far from an amazing haunted house, a fun-filled parade or celebration, or a quaint New England farm decked out for All Hallow's Eve. Halloween has been jostling Christmas for the top holiday spot for some time now, and while it isn't quite a foregone conclusion yet, it's safe to say that it's come a long way from the days of pillowcase trick or treating and glow sticks. Not that these steadfast traditions are going anywhere, don't you worry. Read on for your ultimate guide to the good, the even better, and the totally terrifying across the entire state this Halloween season.

Unbearable Cuteness Among the Alpacas of Morris, Connecticut

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Fri, 07/27/2018 - 8:24pm

What do you call it when alpacas take over the world? The Alpacalypse! What did the alpaca say to the blade of grass? Nice gnawing you! What do you call it when alpacas sing? Alpacapella...I could go on all day! But I won't. Instead I'm going to encourage you to grab the fam, hop in the car, and visit Southwind Farms in Morris where you can meet and greet...wait for it...alpacas! Ooh, road trip? Alpaca my bags! (Sorry, sorry).